Briefkaart aan Philip Zilcken Possibly 1904 - 1914

This pre-printed postal card was created by Willem van Konijnenburg, and sent to Philip Zilcken. The card is a paper product, industrially made and cheaply available for mass communication. The pre-printed format is typical of its time, designed for quick and easy correspondence. The printed elements – the coat of arms, the word "Briefkaart," and the guidelines for the address – speak to the standardization of communication in the early 20th century. The handwriting, in contrast, feels personal and expressive, a direct connection to the sender's thoughts and intentions. The postal stamp bears witness to the distribution networks of the early 20th century, and the efficiency of the postal service. This piece reflects the tensions between industrial production and individual expression, highlighting the social and economic context of early 20th-century communication. By appreciating the everyday materials and processes involved, we gain a deeper understanding of the rich cultural significance embedded in this artifact.